Putting Together a Compact Tool Kit

Having a good compact tool kit is the key to getting you out of most mechanical problems and fixing flats to get you up and rolling again. This kit may not be needed most rides but the peace of mind that it gives when you are 30 miles away from home or your vehicle is priceless.  Even if you may not know how to use some of these items, simply having them along for the ride can still help you out.  Cyclists are friendly people and there is a good chance that one will stop if you are experiencing a problem and having the right tools for the job will help them help you. 

My kit contains a spare tube, a tool/parts bag, chain lube, CO2 cartridges and a digital pressure gauge.  The photo above shows the contents of my tool/parts bag.  This small bag keeps my items neatly together and is easily transferred from bike to bike depending on which I choose to ride.  These tools and parts will help me continue my ride whether I get a flat, break a chain, bend/break a derailleur hanger or need to do some wrenching on my bike.

The most common problem cyclist experience is a flat tire.  To repair a flat I carry a set of tire levers, spare tube and CO2 cartridge/inflator combo.  I use the Air Chuck Elite from Genuine Innovations because of its super compact size and ease of use.  For most rides I bring along only one tube (for century rides I will carry two) and keep it in the box or a ziploc bag to keep from it from rubbing or causing abrasions caused by jostling around in my seat or frame bag.  When only carrying one tube, having a Park Tool Super Patch Kit is my backup in the event of another flat.  On my fatbike I also have a frame pump which comes in handy for quick pressure adjustment or if a 20 gram CO2 cartridge isn't enough to fill those big tires to the desired pressure.  To read air pressure I like the small size, backlit digital readout and swivel head of the SKS Digital Airchecker.  I use it before every ride to make sure my tires are inflated to the proper pressure for the conditions I will be riding.

Something that happens to mountain bikers and gravel enthusiasts more than road cyclists is a sidewall tear in a tire.  A dollar bill, empty GU packet or Powerbar wrapper can be used to boot a tire so you can get to your destination or finish your ride.  To learn how to boot a tire, watch the video "How to Fix a Torn Sidewall on Your Mountain Bike".

For quick chain repair I carry a Park Tool Mini Chain Brute Chain Tool and a master link for each of my bikes.  This way I can transfer my tool bag from bike to bike and have the necessary link I may need.  These items don't take up much space in the bag and will save me in the event of a chain break.  This chain tool is also useful for sizing a new chain.

A very necessary part of my tool kit includes a set of Fix It Sticks Replaceables.  This compact multi-tool has saved me on numerous occasions and has the torque and leverage to get the job done.  I've used them for everything from tightening a loose cleat and changing my saddle height to working on my bikes in the stand.  For more information on this wonder tool, read my post Product Review: Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition & T-Way Wrench.

I carry a spare zip tie for securing brake and shifter cables to the frame.  During cold weather these zip ties become brittle and break leaving your cables dangling.  A compact bottle of lube for those really dusty rides (gravel/singletrack) will help keep your drivetrain running smoothly.

And finally, in the event of a crash that can bend or even break a derailleur hanger, having a spare in the tool bag can be a lifesaver.  Replacing a bent hanger will bring back that smooth shifting by aligning the cassette with the upper and lower jockey wheels.  Watch the video below to learn how to change a derailleur hanger.

A toolkit containing these items will save you from the long walk of shame back to the car or having to call someone to come pick you up.  Put together your own compact tool kit, learn to change a flat and how fix the most common mechanical issues you may face and you will never be stranded again.

Product Review: Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition & T-Way Wrench

I never go on a ride without being prepared for the unexpected and carrying a compact and versatile multi-tool that has leverage is a must for me.  I've used other multi-tools in the past but they didn't compare once Fix It Sticks came to the market.  Ever since finding out about them at Interbike 2013, they are all I carry and have come to the rescue on many occasions whether I was riding my mountain bike, fatbike or cyclocross bike.

Now that the new stronger steel Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition is available, it has even more versatility and the bits I need for all of my bikes.  The set doesn't take up much space in my seat pack or frame bag and when I need them for a task I snap them together to form a T-wrench.  With two position wrenching (see photo below) I have plenty of leverage and reach to get the job done.

It's nice having Fix It Sticks' variety of replaceable bits with me out on the trail or gravel roads.  They have come in quite handy on many occasions from adjusting the height of my saddle or realigning it after a crash, removing a skewer (no quick release) to change a flat and tightening a loose cleat on my Wölvhammers, just to name a few.

Strong Neodymium magnets hold the bits in place while wrenching and I can add any standard 1/4" bit from my toolbox to use if the need should arise.  This flexibility not only works great for use on my bikes but also for tasks around the house.  The set comes with eight of the most commonly used bits for road and mountain bikes.  It is the ultimate compact multi-tool with all of the leverage and torque I need to get me back in the saddle and riding should a repair or adjustment be needed.

Specifications

• Includes 8 interchangeable bits (2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm Hex, Torx 25, Phillips #2)
• Accepts any standard ¼” bit
• All steel construction
• Neodymium magnets hold the bits securely in place
• Maximum torque: 54 Nm
• Weight: 118 grams

Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition sets are available from Fix It Sticks and can be ordered form your local Penn Cycle shop for $35.99.

The Fix It Sticks T-Way Wrench is a great new shop tool and bases its design on the original Fix It Sticks.  It features a permanently secured T-shape with a longer shaft and a speed spinner for quicker wrenching.  This longer shaft allows for exceptional leverage and reach for everything from building a bike to swapping out pedals.  Just like the Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition, it accepts any standard 1/4" bit should I need more than the 7 interchangeable bits that it comes with.  It implements those same strong Neodymium magnets to hold the bits in place too.

The T-Way Wrench is my go-to tool when working on my bikes at home.  The torque is incredible and the reach gets me into most places to do my wrenching.  I love the speed spinner on the long shaft for tightening or loosening screws and bolts quickly.  Simply hold it between two fingers and spin the top of the T.  With its variety of bits and 3 ends to hold them it really is an extremely useful shop tool for under $30. 

Specifications

• Permanently secured T-shape for shop / garage use
• All steel construction
• Speed spinner for quick fastening
• Includes 7 interchangeable bits (2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm Hex, Torx 25)
• Accepts any standard ¼” bit
• Neodymium magnets hold the bits securely in place

Fix It Sticks T-Way Wrench is available from Fix It Sticks and can be ordered form your local Penn Cycle shop for $29.99.

Disclosure:  Fix It Sticks provided the review samples for this article, but offered no other form of compensation for this review.

Gift Ideas for the Cyclist on Your List

The holidays are almost here and many of you have a cyclist to shop for.  I have compiled a list of  gift ideas for products that I use and enjoy.  There is something here for just about any type of rider and budget.

Fix It Sticks

($36)

The new Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition is the ultimate compact multi-tool a cyclist wants with them for repairs or adjustments during a ride.  Its small size fits easily into a seat pack or jersey pocket and comes with 8 bits (2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, Phillips #2, Torx 25) to handle most jobs.  Steel construction gives Fix It Sticks 40 ft/lbs of torque and the "T" configuaration provides plenty of leverage.  Available from Fix It Sticks and select bike shops.

CatEye Strada Smart

($80/$140)

New this year is the CatEye Strada Smart which brings together a cycling computer and Bluetooth accessories (Speed/Cadence, Heartrate and Power) with your smartphone.  Works both in Mirror Mode and Sensor Direct Mode. 

Data summary from the CatEye Cycling app can be uploaded to Strava, CatEye Atlas and Training Peaks.  App works with iPhone 4S (IOS 6.1) or later and Android devices with Android 4.4/Bluetooth 4.0.  Available in Strada Smart and Strada Smart Package from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

CamelBak Podium Bottles

($9-$25)

The CamelBak Podium line of water bottles has been a favorite of cyclists because of their innovative design and high flow spill-proof Jet Valve.  They come in a variety of models that include the Podium, Podium Chill and Podium Ice in sizes from 21 to 25 oz. depending on the model.  Chill and Ice models are designed to keep your water cold longer in warm temperatures or slow down freezing in the wintertime.  Available from Camelbak, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Banjo Brother Frame Pack

($33/$35)

The Banjo Brother Frame Pack is a favorite of commuters and gravel grinders alike for its convenient 2-pocket storage with easy access.  It comes in two sizes, small (70 cubic inches) and medium (102 cubic inches) that fit sloping frames down to 15".  Keeps snacks, spare tubes, keys and wallet close at hand and the medium pack is large enough to accommodate a 2L (70 oz) hydration bladder.  Available from Banjo Brothers, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

SKS Airchecker

($25)

The SKS Airchecker is handy little digital tire pressure gauge that works with both Presta and Shrader valves.  It has a swivel head to make seeing the large digital readout easy at any angle and switches from Bar to PSI with the touch of a button.  Accurate readouts for low pressure fatbike tires to high pressure road bike tires with measurements up to 144 psi are what makes this a versatile multi-bike gauge.  The compact size fits in a seat bag without taking up too much space leaving room for other things like a tube and tire levers.  Available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Finish Line Super Bike Wash

($9-$13)

Cleaning your bike and keeping it looking new is easy with Finish Line Super Bike Wash.  This safe for all surfaces, non-toxic and biodegradable product can be used two ways to remove dirt and grime with little or no scrubbing.  Spray it on and wipe it off or hose it off allowing you to clean your bike inside or outside.  Available in 1 Liter ready to use spray bottle, 1 Liter refill and 16 oz. concentrate at Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Quad Lock Bike Kit

($70)

The Quad Lock Bike Kit is a lightweight and strong bike mount system for your smarthphone.  For those that like to use their smarthphone with ride tracking apps or for navigation, this kit is the way to go.  The Bike Mount attaches easily to the stem or bar with rubber O-rings or zip ties for a secure fit.  The dual action locking mechanism allows quick attachment or removal of the phone from the bike.  Quad Lock has models for Galaxy S4, Galaxy S5, iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5/5S, and iPhone 6.  Available from Quad Lock and Amazon.com.

DeFeet Woolie Boolie Socks

($13-$25)

For the cold weather cyclist, any one of the DeFeet Woolie Boolie socks would be a great addition to their cycling apparel.  Made from American Merino Wool, Nylon and Lycra, this sock line is warm, comfortable, doesn't bunch up and is not itchy.  They come in heights from 1" to knee high in men's and women's sizes.  Available from DeFeet, fine bike shops and Amazon.com.
  

Scosche boomBOTTLE

($130)

The Scosche boomBOTTLE is a rugged IPX4 Splashproof/Weatherproof Bluetooth connectivity speaker designed to fit in a water bottle cage or cupholder.  Skip the earbuds and enjoy listening to podcasts or music while riding and still be able to hear approaching vehicles or passing cyclists.  With a 10 hour battery life and rich loud sound this speaker will keep you entertained on those long rides.  Available in a variety of colors from Scosche, Amazon.com and other online retailers.

Park Tool Chain Checker

($30)

Chain stretch can cause sloppy shifting, uneven drivetrain wear and premature cassette replacement.  Know your chain's percentage of stretch and replace it before it has a chance to do damage with the Park Tool CC-2 Chain Checker.  It is 10 and 11 speed compatible and has readings from 0 to 1 % of stretch.  For most chains replacement should be done at or before .75% of stretch.  This simple tool is easy to use and will take the guess work out of when to replace that worn chain.  Available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Gift Cards From Your Local Bike Shop

Don't know what to get the cyclist on your list?  Gift cards from your local bike shop are always appreciated.  They can be used for tune-ups and overhauls, component and part upgrades, accessories, apparel, unexpected repairs (crash) or toward a new bike purchase.  Gift cards are available in a variety of denominations and are always the perfect size.

Tire Gauges to Dial In the Right Pressure For Varying Riding Conditions

Keeping your tires properly inflated is key to speed, control, traction and avoiding pinch flats.  Colder temperatures can cause tire pressure to decrease as much as 2% for every 10° F drop, so checking your tires to ensure proper inflation should be done before each ride, especially in winter.  Fatbike tires with their large air volume are designed to run very low pressure and need to be adjusted depending on the riding conditions.  A change of as little as a pound or two of psi can make a huge difference to how a fatbike tire reacts to the conditions you are riding.  I had a chance to test two gauges recently that will do the trick for fatbike tires and one works with any bike tire.

 The SKS Airchecker Digital Pressure Gauge is so compact, it is easy to carry with you in a tool pack, seat bag or jersey pocket.  It weighs only 45 grams and works with Schrader and Presta valves so it can be used on everything from road bikes to fatbikes.  After using it for both my mountain bike and fatbike tires, I have come to like the handy features of this little device.  The head swivels to get into a variety of positions for an easy reading. The large backlit display is easily seen in low light conditions.  Bleeding off a few pounds of air pressure to achieve a desired reading is done by simply pushing the orange deflate button on the head.  It automatically shuts off after each use and even with the low psi of my Hüsker Dü tires, the Airchecker had no problem reading single digit air pressures.

The only negative that I came across when using the Airchecker was during extreme cold conditions.  I brought it along in my frame bag on a below zero day and later tried to get a reading on my fatbike tires and could not get a result.  This can be avoided by keeping it in a jacket or pants pocket to protect it from the cold.   Other than that, it's a convenient gauge that works with all bike tires to get a quick and accurate reading.

The SKS Airchecker Digital Gauge comes with a carrying pouch and is available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops for $24.99.

The G.H. Meiser Low Pressure Presta Valve Dial Gauge reads tire pressures from 0 to 30 psi and is tested for accuracy to within .25% of the scale. This gauge is an excellent choice for fatbikers looking to dial in that that precise inflation psi for the conditions, whether they be soft or hard pack snow, trail or on-road/urban riding.   It will give very accurate readings for fatbike tires which typically have very low inflation psi.  Most fatbike riders will run 6-8 psi for softer conditions, 10-15 psi for trail riding and 20-25 psi for on-road/urban riding.  With this gauge and a little experimentation you will be able to set the pressure exactly to your liking.  I found running 6 psi in the front and 8 psi in the back for snow pack and 10-12 psi for dirt singletrack works best for me.  This gauge helps me "tune in" my tires to find that perfect balance between float and bounce.

Because it is made with a Bourdon tube movement, it is not affected by temperature, humidity or altitude changes making it a great choice for winter riders.  What I like most about this gauge is the large easy to read 2" dial that holds a reading until the button is pressed and its ability to bleed air from a tire by holding the button.  Once the button is released after an air bleed, the gauge will display the pressure.  With temperature changes and differing riding conditions, I really like this gauge for fine tuning my fatbike tire pressure before or during a ride.  It definitely helps me achieve the proper roll.

The G.H. Meiser Low Pressure Presta Valve Dial Gauge is available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops for $19.99.

Disclosure:  SKS USA and G.H. Meiser provided the review samples for this article, but offered no other form of compensation for this review.

Cycling Stocking Stuffers Under $50

When it comes to shopping for the cyclist on your list, there are some useful stocking stuffers under $50 that any bike lover would be happy to get.  Here are seven of them that come in small packages and won't break the bank.

SKS Airchecker Digital Gauge 
 $24.99

This handy little digital gauge works with Shcrader and Presta valves and has a lighted readout in both PSI and bar.  The swiveling head makes it easy to take a reading and has a deflate button to bleed off excess air pressure.  Its small size conveniently fits in a jersey pocket, tool pack or seat bag to take with you.  Available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Light & Motion Vis 180 Mirco
$49

The Vis 180 Micro packs 25 lumens of light output in a small taillight.  This USB Li-ion rechargeable light  has run times of 4 to 20 hours depending on which of the four settings (High, High Pulse, Low Pulse and Paceline) are used.   It weighs only 61 grams and has a locking mount clip for installation on frame, seatpost or bag.  This taillight's bright amber side lights deliver 180° of visibility to get you seen.  Available from Light & Motion, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Fix It Sticks 
 $29.99

Fix It Sticks are a light-weight, innovative new multi-tool with all the torque of a 3-way wrench.  Their small size makes them very easy to stash away in a seat bag, top-tube bag or jersey pocket.  Each set comes with a convenient carrying case made from a recycled tube.  They made in the USA and come in many versions.  Choose from Aluminum or Steel.  Available from Fix It Sticks or from select dealers.

Swiftwick Pursuit Socks 
$15.99-$34.99

The Pursuit line from Swiftwick is the only 200 needle compression sock on the market.  Its 23.5 gauge Australian Merino Wool construction provides thermal protection and wicks away moisture keeping feet warm and dry.  They come is size small to extra large with a height of zero to twelve inches.  This is a great sock for colder weather cycling but can be used in warm weather because of its excellent wicking properties.  Available from Swiftwick and select bike shops.

Banjo Brothers Cycling Phone Wallet
$5.99

Banjo Brothers' Phone Wallet is a durable and water-resistant pouch for your phone, ID, spare keys, etc.  It has a touch screen compatible window and will fit phones up to 2.75 x 5.75 inches.  Stuff it in your jersey or jacket pocket and it will keep your items dry and protected.  Available from Banjo Brothers, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Genuine Innovations

Genuine Innovations Air Chuck Elite Inflator
$24.99

The Air Chuck Elite Inflator is very compact, easy to use and inflation is controllable with its push-to-inflate technology.  It's all metal alloy design weighs only 17 grams and works with both Schrader and Presta valves.  Includes a 16g and 20g threaded CO2 cartridge.  Available from Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Lone Peak Tool Roll Essentials Kit
$29.95

The Tool Roll Essentials Kit is made from 1000 D Nylon and comes with a Park Tools Patch Kit, tire levers and 4, 5, & 6 mm allen wrenches.  Extra compartments hold CO2 Cartridges, spare tube, chain tool, etc.  Roll it up for attachment under the saddle or store inside a seat bag, handlebar pack or pannier.  Available from Lone Peak and authorized dealers.

Fix It Sticks: A Compact Multi-Tool with Leverage & Torque

Aluminum Version

After hearing all of the buzz before and during Interbike about Fix It Sticks, I had to find out more about this innovative new multi-tool.  I found myself drawn to the smallest booth at Interbike to meet with Fix It Sticks inventor and founder Brian Davis.  He told me how this small tool went from an idea he had one day after having a front derailleur snap off of his trainer to becoming a Kickstarter funded reality. Then he demonstrated how the design will provide the leverage and torque needed that many multi-tools lack.  "All the benefits of a 3-way wrench and a folding multi-tool without any of the compromise." - Brian Davis

Steel Version

Brian sent me a set of the steel version (aluminum version also available) of Fix It Sticks after I told him that they would come in handy for swapping out pedals.  I have had trouble removing pedals with my current multi-tool because it just didn't have the leverage and torque needed to do so.  Brian told me the steel version was a little heavier but had a higher torque rating.





The Mountain Set sent to me contains the tips I need to make most adjustments on my mountain bike.  The first task to put them to the test was to remove my clipless pedals and install my flats.  The Fix It Sticks' T-shaped design made easy work of popping the pedals loose and installing them tightly.  While I wouldn't need this kind of torque for other adjustments, it is nice to have such a small multi-tool that can handle tasks that may require a 3-way tool.  They are able to get into tight spots using just one of them to start a bolt and then inserting the other into it to tighten.

Their small size makes them very easy to stash away in a seat bag, top-tube bag, stem pack or jersey pocket.  Each set comes with a convenient carrying case made from a recycled tube that keeps them from clanking around in your pack or pocket.  I no longer use my old bulky multi-tool that didn't have the leverage I needed and had a bunch of other stuff I didn't.  I ride some long distances on gravel roads out in the middle of nowhere and I have to carry all of the necessary tools to get me out of a jam and back in the saddle.  Fix It Stick are now a vital part of my rescue pack because they don't take up much space and get the job done.  Be prepared for the unexpected, don't get caught out on a ride without them. 

Fix It Sticks are made in the USA, come in many versions and are available in Aluminum or Steel.  Sets include:

• 1 Stick or Custom sets
• SRAM Inspired Set (2.5, 4, 5mm hex and Torx 25)
• Standard Set A (4, 5, 6mm hex/Slotted 5mm wide)
• Standard Set B (4, 5, 6mm hex/Phillips #2) 
• Roadie/Tri Set (3, 4, 5mm hex/Phillips #2)
• Mountain Set (4, 5, 6mm hex/Torx 25)
• Tuner Set (2, 2.5, 3mm hex/Phillips #2)
• Snow Set - Fix It Sticks for Snowsports (Phillips #2 & 3, 4mm hex & Slotted 5mm wide)
• Torx Set (T-10, T-20, T-25, T-30)
• Homeowner Set (Phillips #1 and #2/Slotted at 5mm & 8mm wide)
• Titanium Fix It Sticks - Limited Availability (all custom bits)

Fix It Sticks retail for $29.99 and can be purchased on the Fix It Sticks website or from select dealers.

Disclosure:  Fix It Sticks provided the review sample for this article, but offered no other form of compensation for this review. 

Interbike 2013 Cool Bike Gear-Part 2

After five days in Las Vegas for Interbike, I have seen anything and everything bike related.  There was so much to see that it took all three days at the show and both days at the Outdoor Demo to take it all in.  I felt like a kid in a candy store and there were many things that caught my eye.  This is the second installment of four posts highlighting some of the cool new products at Interbike 2013 that are now available, available soon or are coming to a bike shop near you.

Kryptonite Evolution LITE Mini 6 U-Lock

New in the Kryptonite line for 2014 is the Evolution LITE Mini 6 U-Lock.  This is their lightest weight u-lock at 1.65 lbs. (747 grams) which is 16% lighter than their Evolution Mini-5.  Its design implements the New MAX-Performance steel shackle  material which provides high security with a smaller shackle diameter.  It also has a new key design with a replaceable LED key fob and a new patent-pending hybrid cylinder technology for increased security.  It's small enough to fit in a pocket or can be attached to a bike frame using the optional Transit FlexFrame-U Bracket.  Look for it coming soon to a bike shop near you.

Hydrapak Soft Flask

For 2014 from Hydrapak comes a new version of the Soft Flask in three new sizes, 350 (12 oz), 500 (17 oz) and 750 ml (25 oz) bringing the line to five choices.  The original tube version of the Soft Flask was meant to be used with energy gels but this new design is larger, has a wider cap, a hardened rounded bottom and will work great as a soft collapsible water bottle.  It comes with a shut off valve to prevent leaks, has a high-flow bite valve and it collapses as you drink from it.  When empty, stow it away using minimal space by simply scrunching it up.  The Hydrapak Soft Flasks will start shipping out in October and retail for $11.99 to $20.99.

Hero Kit

The Hero Kit is a bike rescue kit that helps get a cyclist back up and riding and avoid that long walk of shame.  These kits will give cyclists of all abilities the tools and instruction for the most common problems they may face out on the road or trail.   They were designed with the help of expert riders and mechanics to include the necessary tools and easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions to get even the novice of riders out of a jam.  Its small package size can easily fit into a jersey pocket, seat bag or top tube bag.

There is also a Super Hero Kit for Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and Extreme for Mountain Biking with a spare tube, tire pump and seat pack (Road Cycling) or top tube bag (Mountain Biking).  “A Hero Kit is more than just a bag of tools,” says Hero Kit's founder Jason Berv. “It’s confidence in a kit, empowerment to ride a trail that you’ve never ridden before, knowledge that you have what you need, including tools and how-to and support, to get you back to the trailhead safely."  Hero Kits are now available and may be purchased from Herokit.com. 

Nite Rider Lumina Flare

New for 2014 from Nite Rider is the Lumina Flare.  This light features 650 Lumens to penetrate the darkness and integrates a 1W red taillight on the other end to alert those behind you.  It contains an internal USB rechargeable Lithium Ion battery that will deliver a run time of 1:30 hours on High (650), 3 hours on Medium (350), 5½ hours on  Low (200) and 18 hours on Walk (40) and also has a flash mode.  The Lumina Flare can be mounted on handlebars but is most effective when helmet mounted for use of the rear taillight.  Its one piece design is a great choice for commuters looking for a headlight/taillight combination.  Look for it coming to your local bike shop sometime this fall.  MSRP $169.99.  

A'ME Heated Grips

For cyclists that want to keep their hands warm when riding in cold conditions there is the A'ME Handlebar Thermal Wrap System and Heated MTB Grip.  These thermal grips feature bluPulse™ ‘Adaptive Thermal Regulation’ technology with six different temperature settings that can be selected by pushing a button.  Both units run on a 11.1 volt Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery Pack that can be mounted to a frame tube or handlebar stem and it has watertight connectors.  The MTB grips are available in three styles for $199 and the Road Bike wraps for $199.  All come with a  6 Month Grip Replacement on Manufacture Defects and a 2-Year Half-Price Replacement Warranty on grips for damage due to fall or excessive wear.  Available now at amegrips.com.